Today, we honor the memory of Haruka Weiser, a talented dancer, a dedicated UT student, and a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. She embraced life with passion—from her love of ballet to her excitement at discovering the stacks in the UT library.
Her parents, Yasuyo and Thomas Weiser, turned their grief into action, launching the Walk With Me campaign to create a culture of care and safety among students. Their message was simple: No one should walk alone.
The Joy of New Discoveries
Haruka loved to dance, but she also loved to explore. Her father, Thomas, remembers how excited she was to discover “the stacks”—endless rows of books in the UT library. She couldn’t wait to show him.
UT became her home, a place where she thrived, made friends, and even surprised herself—like when she texted her dad, “I love football!!” from her first Longhorn game. She was growing, learning, and embracing every experience.
She was, in her dad’s words, “really happy here.”
The Meaning of “Walk With Me”
In the wake of their unimaginable loss, Haruka’s parents knew they had to act. They created Walk With Me, a campaign rooted in three powerful meanings:
1️⃣ Walk with each other – Always walk in pairs or groups, especially at night.
2️⃣ Walk with Haruka’s memory and purpose – Live each day with passion and determination.
3️⃣ Walk with us and all who are suffering – Stand against violence and support those in need.
At SafeHorns, we continue this mission every day, advocating for a culture of safety and looking out for one another.
Walking Together is an Act of Grace
“Walk With Me is not a sign of weakness, it is an act of grace and kindness.” – Thomas Weiser
Haruka’s parents believe that walking together should be the norm, just as “Friends don’t let friends drive drunk.” Their message: Don’t let your friends walk alone.
Small actions make a big difference. Walk with a friend. Call SURE Walk or West Campus Ambassadors for an escort. Use campus safety resources. Looking out for each other is how we build a stronger, safer community.
Honoring Haruka Through Dance
Haruka’s passion for dance was unmatched. She spent hours watching Misty Copeland and Maria Kochetkova, studying their every move. Her dedication was not just about talent—it was about persistence, drive, and heart.
In 2018, UT’s Department of Theatre and Dance honored her with “Resurrection,” a breathtaking performance that celebrated her spirit.
Her light continues to shine through dance, through movement, through every step forward we take in her name.
Carrying Her Light Forward
In her passing, Haruka was given a new Buddhist name: “Bright Faith.” It represents who she has become—a beacon of light and hope, urging us to be our best, to move beyond pain, and to live each day with purpose.
Her story is a reminder that life is precious. Let’s carry her light forward by being there for one another, speaking out against violence, and ensuring that no student walks alone.
Together, we continue her story—not in sorrow, but in action.
🔗 Donate to the Haruka Memorial Fund
Honoring Haruka, Protecting the Future
Haruka’s tragic passing was the reason SafeHorns was founded, and we refuse to let her story be forgotten. Our mission has always been to advocate for student safety—fighting for better lighting, safer pathways, increased police presence, and a culture of awareness.
Eight years later, we opened SafeHorns Place—a space dedicated to student safety, awareness, and community support. It stands as a symbol of change and a testament to Haruka’s lasting impact. No student should ever feel unsafe on campus.
“We believe that we cannot counter the forces of violence with more violence, but with love and understanding.” – Thomas Weiser
We walk with Haruka’s memory. We walk with each other. We walk with purpose.
📢 Read more about SafeHorns Place
💛 #WalkWithMe #SafeHorns #UTAustin #BrightFaith #CampusSafety
